'Clown' close to winning a seat in Brazil parliament

A humorist known for dressing as a clown and poking fun at politics is running as a candidate in the Brazilian election, and has a good chance of being successful.

An electoral propaganda poster of clown Francisco Everardo Oliveira Silva also known as TiriricaPhoto: AFP/GETTY IMAGES

7:00AM BST 29 Sep 2010

Detractors have filed a dozen lawsuits against Tiririca - whose real name is Francisco Everardo Oliveira.

While most attack him for ridiculing Brazil's legislative institutions, the most serious suit seeks to invalidate his bid for a federal seat by claiming that he is, like 20 per cent of the population, illiterate.

The commotion around Tiririca would be minor in other circumstances. But it has taken on bigger proportions because, according to polls, the comic is within reach of actually winning his seat to represent Sao Paulo state.

He has gained popularity with his advertisements, which contrast with the run-of-the-mill "vote-for-me" pleas seen on television.

While most candidates smile determinedly at the camera and pledge standard vows to cut corruption or improve health services, Tiririca - who graduated from being a circus performer to a television personality - serves as comic relief.

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"It can't get any worse if you vote for me," is another of his slogans, delivered with a wide smile and both hands held up in a V-for-victory sign.

While many of Brazil's 135 million voters now easily recognise him, and say they will vote for him either because they are amused or because they are tired of the usual politicians, some cast down their heads at Tiririca actually becoming elected.

"I feel ashamed to be Brazilian... This is getting out of hand," said one voter on a Brazilian news website.

Tiririca is unfazed.

"Each day I am more motivated by the support of the voters," he said on his website.

"They show me I was right to run, and that their vote can help me realize my dream to help people in politics - to help those most in need. Including my family."

Some who have walked Brazil's hallowed - and often corrupt and nepotistic - halls of congress are not amused, however.

"This should not be happening. You should vote for those who have something to contribute, and who keep their promises. Don't waste your vote on jokes," said a former senator, Aloizio Mercadante, who is now running to be governor of Sao Paulo state.